Recent Updates on the Mechanism of Action of Spirulina as an Anticancer Agent Against Breast Cancer
10.31436/ imjm.v25i01.2877
- Author:
Angie La
1
;
Subramaiam H
2
Author Information
1. School of Medicine, IMU University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpu
2. Pathology and Pharmacology Department, School of Medicine, IMU University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Spirulina;
Breast Cancer;
Phycocyanin;
Ki-67;
Apoptosis
- From:
The International Medical Journal Malaysia
2026;25(No. 2):31-37
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Spirulina, a small blue-green algae that lives in warm, alkaline seas, is one of the world's
oldest life forms. With century-old history, this nutrient-rich organism has received a
lot of interest in recent years for its possible health benefits and sustainable production
practices. Studies have indicated its antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory
qualities are contributed by its bioactive compounds, mainly phycocyanin. Other
compounds or elements include phycocyanobilin, carotenoids, unsaturated fatty acids,
selenium, and amino acids. Breast cancer is one of the major causes of cancer related
death in women. As some of the cancer therapies are highly associated with side
effects, nutraceuticals such as Spirulina could be an alternative therapeutic intervention.
Although some research has been conducted to investigate the anti-breast cancer
effects of Spirulina in the past, its mechanism of action is not entirely understood.
Previous studies suggest that it may trigger apoptosis and autophagy via modifying
signalling pathways such as NF-κB and Bcl-2/Bax ratio. It also has anti-proliferative
properties, inhibits cell migration, causes cell cycle arrest, and lowers cancer cells'
capacity to form colonies. Phycocyanin has been shown to produce reactive oxygen
species (ROS) and down-regulate anti-apoptotic molecules, which contribute to its
anticancer capabilities. These findings show that Spirulina fights cancer by targeting a
variety of cellular mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. While these data imply
potential benefits, more clinical trials and research into the exact mechanisms of
Spirulina in cancer treatments are needed to fully demonstrate its efficacy in treating
breast cancer in humans.
- Full text:2026041010221496292RA+-+Recent+Updates+on+the+Mechanism+of+Action+of+Spirulina.pdf
